Digital libraries established in 57,600 gram panchayats: UP CM Yogi

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted the importance of reading and knowledge to the youth of Uttar Pradesh, urging them to embrace the lessons from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's book 'Exam Warriors'. Addressing the 5th Gomti Book Festival-2026 at Lucknow University, he stressed that the youth should not be confined to a narrow sphere of knowledge, emphasizing that society and the nation suffer when their capacity diminishes and they distance themselves from their heritage.

Acknowledging that Uttar Pradesh was once part of the BIMARU category, the CM noted that the state's youth once faced an identity crisis, but the situation has changed significantly.

The Chief Minister inaugurated the festival at Lucknow University and distributed copies of 'Exam Warriors' to the children present. He explained that the digital era has bridged the gap between villages and cities, enabling the establishment of digital libraries in 57,600 gram panchayats. These libraries, funded by the National Book Trust, provide books and resources to villagers, fostering a culture of reading and learning.

Yogi Adityanath lamented that previous governments had not provided adequate platforms for the youth and rural populations, thereby stifling their potential. He commended the efforts of Operation Kayakalp, which has revitalized school buildings and introduced smart class facilities. The CM also expressed gratitude to the organizers, the National Book Trust, and other institutions for their support and urged the youth to cultivate the habit of buying and reading books that promote creativity and positive thinking, alongside their curriculum studies.

He appealed to them to create their own 'book bank' and to host book fairs throughout the state, extending the reach of the initiative beyond Lucknow.